10 great summer day trip ideas by train

Forget the hassle of traffic and parking – with two trains an hour on the Cornish Main Line, explore by train this summer. Check out 10 of our favourite local day trip ideas:

---

1. PLYMOUTH

Hit the shops at Drake Circus, explore the Barbican or take a dip at the Tinside Lido. Visit the National Marine Aquarium, try the IMAX at The Barcode and discover The Box, the city’s museum and gallery.

2. TRURO

Explore Truro’s Georgian streets, excellent shopping, Anglican Cathedral and the Royal Cornwall Museum. All just a short walk from the station.

3. ST MICHAEL’S MOUNT

Bus/walk from Penzance station

Just a short bus journey from Penzance station, or a scenic 3.5-mile walk around the bay, St Michael’s Mount is an historic castle and garden off the coast of Marazion, reached by its historic cobbled causeway at low tide, or by boat at high tide.

4. LOOE

Change at Liskeard

Change at Liskeard station and ride the Looe Valley Line with great views along the estuary, then explore the narrow streets, harbour, safe beaches and coastal walks. Treat yourself at one of the local restaurants or grab some fish and chips or a pasty to die for.

5. FALMOUTH

Change at Truro

Falmouth is just a short 20-25 minute journey on The Maritime Line from Truro station. Enjoy the great food scene, go for a swim at Gyllyngvase beach, visit the National Maritime Museum, hit the shops or take a stroll to Pendennis Castle.

6. BODMIN STEAM RAILWAY

From Bodmin Parkway station

Hop off at Bodmin Parkway station and step back in time as you catch the Bodmin Railway (pictured above) into town. In Bodmin, explore the shops and cafes or brave the spooky Bodmin Jail.

7. EDEN PROJECT

Bus from St Austell station

Hop on the bus from St Austell station to the Eden Project. Explore their covered biomes, featuring one of the world’s largest indoor rainforests, and check out their summer events programme.

8. PENZANCE

Visit the iconic Jubilee Pool, take in the harbour and shops, get inspired at Penlee House Gallery & Museum or walk along the coast to the attractive fishing port of Newlyn.

9. CHARLESTOWN

Bus/walk from St Austell station

Hop on the bus from St Austell station or take a 30 min stroll to the charming village of Charlestown. Visit the Shipwreck Museum, explore the harbour and have lunch at one of the local cafes.

10. LANHYDROCK

Walk from Bodmin Parkway station

Hop on the train to Bodmin Parkway. From the station there’s a well signposted walk of just under 2 miles to this beautiful National Trust estate. Explore the stunning formal gardens, woodland walks and visit the impressive late Victorian house.

---

Top tip – Get a Devon & Cornwall Railcard!

Live locally? Don’t miss out on great savings with a Devon & Cornwall Railcard (just £12 a year and now available online). Save a third on many fares for you and a friend. You can also bring up to four children for just £1 each.